Musical Experience From an Islamic Perspective: Implications for Music Education in Malaysia
Despite the rich musical traditions and popularity of music in all Islamic cultures, there is widespread belief by Muslims that music is forbidden in Islam and should be avoided by them. A debate concerning the position of music in Islam has, in fact, existed for centuries, and centers upon the question of whether music is permissible (halal) or forbidden (haram). The purpose of this dissertation was to investigate the position of music in Islam and the extent to which the controversy regarding music in Islam has effected music education in Malaysia, with the hope that increased awareness of the relevant issues will contribute to a better situation for music in Malaysian schools as well as the development of a quality music education for all Malaysians.
A two-fold strategy was employed for the purpose of investigating the study’s research questions. First, a review of literature was conducted to clarify the concept of music and musical experience in Islam. The major elements and issues relevant to the position of music in Islam were discussed according to six themes. Second, two interview sessions were arranged with twelve individuals both directly and indirectly involved with music education in Malaysia to obtain their opinions and insights concerning music in Islam and music education in Malaysia. Based on these findings, proposed principles and guidelines for music education in Malaysia consonant with Islamic principles were presented.
Some of the important conclusions drawn in this dissertation include: (1) music education is permissible provided that it occurs in contexts and under conditions sanctioned by Islam; (2) there is a need for an alternative term for “music” because of its negative connotations in the Islamic world; (3) music education in Malaysia should promote musics which are approved by Islam; and (4) all concerned with music education in Malaysia need to be united and focused in their mission if a music education which is consonant with Islam is to exist in Malaysia.